Work Abroad: How to Choose Your Next Digital Nomad Destination

The freedom to work from anywhere in the world is one of the biggest perks of being a digital nomad. But with so many incredible places to explore, choosing your next destination can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking buzzing city life, peaceful beach towns, or mountain serenity, it’s important to evaluate key factors before booking your ticket.

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose your next digital nomad destination with intention.

🌍 1. Time Zone Compatibility

One of the first things to consider is how your time zone aligns with your work schedule or clients. If your team or clients are based in North America, you might want to consider destinations in Latin America like Mexico or Colombia, where the time difference is minimal. If you're working with a European team, places like Portugal, Greece, or South Africa might be a better fit. You can find out the Top 5 Time-Friendly zones for remote workers for the US here.

Balancing your adventure with a practical schedule makes remote work smoother—and your sleep schedule happier.

📶 2. Internet Speed & Infrastructure

Reliable internet is non-negotiable for remote workers. Before heading anywhere, check the average Wi-Fi speed and coworking space availability in the region. Countries like Estonia, South Korea, and the UAE are known for strong digital infrastructure, while more rural or remote areas may have spotty coverage.

Look for places with a solid network of coworking spaces or strong mobile data plans as a backup.

💸 3. Cost of Living

Your budget matters. While your income may stay the same, your expenses will change dramatically based on where you live. Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Bali), parts of Eastern Europe (like Georgia or Bulgaria), and Latin America are popular for their low cost of living while still offering great lifestyle perks.

Use platforms like Numbeo or Nomad List to compare monthly living costs, rent, food, and coworking memberships.

🛂 4. Visa and Legal Requirements

Make sure to check entry and visa requirements for your nationality. Some countries now offer digital nomad visas or long-stay freelance permits—like Portugal, Croatia, and Barbados—making it easier to stay legally while working remotely. Always read the fine print and plan ahead to avoid surprises at immigration.

🤝 5. Community & Lifestyle

A strong nomad or expat community can make all the difference, especially if you’re traveling solo. Look for destinations with active digital nomad scenes, events, and meetups. Cities like Medellín, Chiang Mai, and Lisbon are known for their vibrant remote worker communities.

If you're craving nature, surfing, or slower living, dig into smaller towns—but make sure there's at least a café or two with decent Wi-Fi.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your next digital nomad destination is about finding the right blend of adventure, workability, and lifestyle. With platforms like MyOnBiz, you can find remote job opportunities that support your travel dreams—wherever they may lead.

Where will you work from next?